Participants attend the National Influencer Code Summit in Pretoria, South Africa, on Aug. 13, 2026. Photo Credit:  Luyanda Danca, NNA News

NNA News -  Young South Africans must verify political information before sharing it online, delegates at the National Influencer Code Summit said on Wednesday, warning that misinformation ad AI-generated content could shape the local government elections. The summit at Freedom Park in Pretoria brought together digital content creators, young voters, and political representatives to discuss the impact of social media on the country's democracy and the spread of false information ahead of the election. 

For many young South Africans, social media has become a primary source of news on politics and community issues. Delegates said the rapid growth of artificial intelligence tools has made it more difficult to distinguish authentic content from manipulated images and videos. “I try to always verify if the information is true. I don't just take their word for it, so I authenticate it. If I see that this content creator has been consistent in sharing information that is real and true, then I think I can let my guard down, but not all the time,” said Vumboni Khoza, a summit participant.

Another young social media user, Rabetso Thulo, said the technology posed new challenges. “Sometimes it is a bit challenging. You can generate AI pictures and videos, so it does become a bit challenging. Read up about this information. Don't just accept it at face value,” Thulo explained.

The discussions also addressed the responsibilities of influencers, who command large followings and can sway public opinion. Speaking on behalf of former Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, Umlambo Foundation Chief Executive Viwe Mtshontshi said a proposed code of conduct for influencers should focus on ethics, not politics. “The code should not tell creators which political views they may hold. It should establish ethical standards for how influence is exercised,” Mtshontshi highlighted.

National Influencer Code Summit highlights efforts to promote a responsible and trusted influencer ecosystem in South Africa, Pretoria, Aug. 13, 2026. Photo Credit: Luyanda Danca, NNA News
She added that creators should check electoral information and clearly distinguish between fact, opinion, and speculation. Audiences should also be informed when content is paid for or supported by political organisations, she said. Summit organiser Asanda Lwaca said digital creators have a key role in encouraging young people to take part in democratic processes. “Influencers should understand the power of their platforms and use their reach responsibly,” Lwaca added. With the local elections 83 days away, organisers said social media would remain a central space for political debate and urged users to share information “carefully, honestly and accurately”.